St. Max & St. Jude Homeless Breakfast January, 2020

It was nearly freezing (39 degrees) when we met to carpool up to Ventura. I wore gloves — & my hands were STILL “ice cold” as I gripped the steering wheel — & I was in a warm car! Can you imagine SLEEPING outside (as many of the homeless do) in these conditions?

Present were: Cindy & Bob, Betcy, Ron, Kay & Gary, Rowie & Sophie, Rosalie, Marilou, Cathy & Gerald, Steve, & Sally (14 of us).

As a part of our meal, we serve ham, which we purchase in a large “loaf.” For many years, we have used an electric meat slicer. However, last month, it “gave up the ghost” & we had to replace it. Here is Steve (left), happily getting uniform pieces with our new appliance.

It was disappointing to see a long-time “regular” guest, Jesus, using a wheelchair & having his leg in a brace. He has been diagnosed with diabetes, but seemed calm & upbeat about his situation. He happily “modeled” a warm & attractive scarf made by one of our Prayer Shawl Ministry members.

Doesn’t he look dapper?

Another guest, named Mitchell, (at left) was seated over to the side, with materials for painting pictures. He was quite friendly & animated, exhibiting his work — & even giving me one of his creations.

There were many “new” guests & several “regular” ones. One, named Gail, has not been present for several months, but is easily remembered, as she is full of personality & effervescence. (At right, in a photo I took of her in December, 2017) I have “named” her Bette Midler, as I think she resembles Ms. Midler in looks

& exuberant cheerfulness. She introduced me to her friend, Terry, who seemed the exact opposite: shy & quiet. He is lucky to have her “shepherding” him around town. We chatted & laughed a bit. Then Gail told me how thankful she is for our presence. She said “no one else ever talks to us.”

You are ALL such a joy to know! Thank you for taking part in this Ministry.

Sincerely, Sally Holland